Godin emerged as a late candidate to solve United's central defender crisis and his release clause at Atletico Madrid made the move look relatively realistic.

United manager Jose Mourinho spoke earlier in the day to say he was not confident about his chances of signing a player today, however, Sky have revealed that United are in for the Atletico Madrid defender.

But United appear to still be trying to bring in a top defender with attention suddenly turning to Godin.

The Red Devils have found it extremely hard to sign a new center-back this summer as another defender has rejected a move to the Old Trafford.

But Mourinho's hopes were dashed after he was was told the Uruguayan global has agreed a new deal with Atletico Madrid.

Manchester United wanted to sign Atletico Madrid star Godin after failing to lure the likes of Toby Alderwiereld, Harry Maguire and Yerry Mina to Old Trafford. The 32-year old will be the club's captain this season and wants to continue working with them with no intentions to leave.

'I'm not confident, I'm not confident and the market closes today so it is time at least for me to stop thinking about the market because the market will be closed, ' the Portuguese said at his Thursday press conference.

Godin in action for Atletico Madrid.

Now reports emerging from Spain suggest United have made a late effort to sign 32-year-old Godin, with Mourinho eager to add some experience to his defensive line. "I will have to focus on the players I have".

United were hopeful that they could have persuaded Godin to sign and join his new teammates in time for the Red Devils' Premier League season opener against Leicester on Friday night but they will have to return to the drawing board now.

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